Polite Desires: Using 想 (xiǎng) for 'Would Like To'
Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds
Use {想|xiǎng} before a verb to express your desire or intention to do something.
- Place {想|xiǎng} directly before the main verb: {我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {喝|hē} {水|shuǐ}.
- Use {不|bù} {想|xiǎng} to express a lack of desire: {我|wǒ} {不|bù} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù}.
- Add {吗|ma} at the end to turn it into a question: {你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {吃|chī} {饭|fàn} {吗|ma}?
Overview
As an A1 learner of Chinese, you will quickly encounter various ways to express desire. Among the most crucial is the modal verb 想 (xiǎng). While often translated simply as 'to want,' 想 (xiǎng) carries a nuanced meaning closer to 'would like to,' 'feel like,' or 'to think about doing.' It reflects a desire or intention originating from one's thoughts or feelings, presenting a softer, more polite alternative to the directness of 要 (yào) (to want/must).
想 (xiǎng) serves multiple functions within the Chinese language, primarily as a modal verb that modifies a main verb, but also as a standalone verb meaning 'to think' or 'to miss.' This dual nature, while initially confusing, is resolved by its grammatical context. When 想 (xiǎng) is followed directly by another verb, its meaning unequivocally shifts to expressing a desire to perform that action. This makes 想 (xiǎng) indispensable for polite requests, expressing aspirations, and initiating social interactions without sounding overly demanding.
Understanding 想 (xiǎng) is fundamental to grasping Chinese social nuance. Its use reflects consideration for the listener, suggesting an inclination rather than an imperative. This distinction is vital in various social contexts, from ordering food to making plans, allowing you to communicate your desires gently.
It positions the speaker's wish as a thought or an idea, inviting consideration rather than dictating an outcome, a hallmark of polite communication in Chinese culture.
How This Grammar Works
zhùdòngcí) such as 想 (xiǎng) are auxiliary verbs that precede the main verb. Their function is to express the speaker's attitude, possibility, necessity, or desire regarding the action. Unlike English, where modal verbs like 'want' conjugate (e.g., 'wants,' 'wanted'), Chinese modal verbs remain invariant regardless of the subject's person or number.想 (xiǎng) is straightforward: Subject + 想 (xiǎng) + Main Verb + (Object). This sequence directly translates the mental state of wishing or intending into a verbal action. The 想 (xiǎng) acts as a bridge, connecting the subject's internal desire to the external action they wish to perform.我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 喝 (hē) 茶 (chá) (I would like to drink tea). Here, 想 (xiǎng) precedes 喝 (hē) (to drink), indicating your desire for the action.想 (xiǎng) precedes a main verb, it expresses an inclination or a desire that is still in the realm of thought or a polite suggestion. It signifies a less firm commitment to the action than 要 (yào). Consider 我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 学习 (xuéxí) 中文 (Zhōngwén) (I would like to study Chinese).想 (xiǎng) can function as a main verb itself, meaning 'to think' or 'to miss.' The grammatical context clarifies its role. When followed by a direct object that is a person or place, it typically means 'to miss.' For example, 我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 妈妈 (māma) means 'I miss Mom.' When followed by a clause or an idea, it signifies 'to think' or 'to believe,' as in 我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 他 (tā) 会 (huì) 来 (lái) (I think he will come). However, for A1 learners, the primary focus for 想 (xiǎng) will be its modal use for 'would like to.'Formation Pattern
想 (xiǎng) follows predictable patterns, making it accessible even for beginners. Understanding these foundational structures is key to accurately expressing your desires and intentions in Chinese.
想 (xiǎng) + [Verb] + [Object/Complement].
我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 学习 (xuéxí) 中文 (Zhōngwén)。 (I would like to study Chinese.)
他 (tā) 想 (xiǎng) 去 (qù) 北京 (Běijīng)。 (He would like to go to Beijing.)
我们 (wǒmen) 想 (xiǎng) 吃 (chī) 饺子 (jiǎozi)。 (We would like to eat dumplings.)
想 (xiǎng) with 不 (bù). The structure becomes: [Subject] + 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) + [Verb] + [Object/Complement].
不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) directly translates to 'do not want to' or 'do not feel like.'
她 (tā) 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) 看 (kàn) 电影 (diànyǐng)。 (She doesn't want to watch a movie.)
我 (wǒ) 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) 喝 (hē) 咖啡 (kāfēi)。 (I don't feel like drinking coffee.)
他们 (tāmen) 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) 去 (qù) 商店 (shāngdiàn)。 (They don't want to go to the store.)
吗 (ma)):
吗 (ma) at the end of an affirmative statement. The structure is: [Subject] + 想 (xiǎng) + [Verb] + [Object/Complement] + 吗 (ma)?
你 (nǐ) 想 (xiǎng) 喝 (hē) 茶 (chá) 吗 (ma)? (Would you like to drink tea?)
她 (tā) 想 (xiǎng) 买 (mǎi) 这 (zhè) 件 (jiàn) 衣服 (yīfu) 吗 (ma)? (Does she want to buy this piece of clothing?)
你们 (nǐmen) 想 (xiǎng) 去 (qù) 饭店 (fàndiàn) 吗 (ma)? (Do you all want to go to the restaurant?)
想 (xiǎng), this involves placing 不 (bù) between two instances of 想 (xiǎng). The structure is: [Subject] + 想 (xiǎng) 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) + [Verb] + [Object/Complement]?
吗 (ma) and is a key feature of spoken Chinese.
你 (nǐ) 想 (xiǎng) 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) 吃饭 (chī fàn)? (Do you want to eat or not?)
他 (tā) 想 (xiǎng) 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) 睡觉 (shuì jiào)? (Does he want to sleep or not?)
你 (nǐ) 想 (xiǎng) 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) 去 (qù) 中国 (Zhōngguó)? (Do you want to go to China or not?)
Subject + 想 + Verb + Object | Wǒ xiǎng hē shuǐ. | 我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 喝 (hē) 水 (shuǐ)。 (I'd like to drink water.) |
Subject + 不想 + Verb + Object | Wǒ bùxiǎng qù xuéxiào. | 我 (wǒ) 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) 去 (qù) 学校 (xuéxiào)。 (I don't want to go to school.) |
Subject + 想 + Verb + Object + 吗? | Nǐ xiǎng chī fàn ma? | 你 (nǐ) 想 (xiǎng) 吃饭 (chī fàn) 吗 (ma)? (Would you like to eat?) |
Subject + 想不想 + Verb + Object? | Nǐ xiǎng bù xiǎng kàn shū? | 你 (nǐ) 想 (xiǎng) 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) 看 (kàn) 书 (shū)? (Do you want to read a book?) |
When To Use It
想 (xiǎng) is deployed in various situations where you wish to convey a desire, an intention, or a thought politely and without strong imposition. Its flexibility makes it one of the most useful modal verbs for A1 learners navigating everyday interactions.想 (xiǎng) when articulating what you would like to do, feel like doing, or what you aspire to. This can range from immediate, simple desires to long-term goals.周末 (zhōumò) 我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 休息 (xiūxí)。(This weekend, I would like to rest.) - A current feeling or desire.我 (wǒ) 将来 (jiānglái) 想 (xiǎng) 当 (dāng) 老师 (lǎoshī)。(In the future, I want to be a teacher.) - A long-term aspiration.你 (nǐ) 想 (xiǎng) 试试 (shìshi) 这 (zhè) 个 (gè) 新 (xīn) 游戏 (yóuxì) 吗 (ma)?(Do you want to try this new game?) - A casual suggestion.
想 (xiǎng) softens a request or invitation, making it less direct and more appealing. It implies that the decision rests with the listener, fostering a comfortable conversational environment.我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 问 (wèn) 一 (yī) 个 (gè) 问题 (wèntí)。(I would like to ask a question.) - A polite opening to an inquiry.我们 (wǒmen) 想 (xiǎng) 邀请 (yāoqǐng) 你 (nǐ) 参加 (cānjiā) 派对 (pàiduì)。(We would like to invite you to the party.) - A gentle invitation.你 (nǐ) 想 (xiǎng) 和 (hé) 我 (wǒ) 一起 (yīqǐ) 喝 (hē) 咖啡 (kāfēi) 吗 (ma)?(Would you like to have coffee with me?) - A friendly suggestion for an outing.
要 (yào) or implicitly):想 (xiǎng) itself primarily pairs with verbs for 'want to,' if you want to politely express a desire for a noun (an object), the common and polite way for A1 learners is often 想要 (xiǎngyào). 想要 (xiǎngyào) functions specifically for desiring objects, combining the thoughtfulness of 想 (xiǎng) with the directness of 要 (yào) for nouns.我 (wǒ) 想要 (xiǎngyào) 一 (yī) 杯 (bēi) 水 (shuǐ)。(I would like a glass of water.) - Polite way to order a drink.他 (tā) 想要 (xiǎngyào) 这 (zhè) 本 (běn) 书 (shū)。(He would like this book.) - Expressing a preference for an item.
想 (xiǎng) is followed directly by a noun representing a person or place, its meaning shifts to 'to miss.' This is a distinct, non-modal usage that is equally important.我 (wǒ) 很 (hěn) 想 (xiǎng) 你 (nǐ)。(I miss you very much.) - Expressing affection or longing.她 (tā) 想 (xiǎng) 家 (jiā) 了 (le)。(She misses home.) - Indicating homesickness.
想 (xiǎng) is followed by a clause (a subject and predicate), it means 'to think' or 'to believe.' The clause typically describes an opinion, a plan, or an assumption.我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 明天 (míngtiān) 会 (huì) 下雨 (xiàyǔ)。(I think it will rain tomorrow.) - Expressing an opinion.你 (nǐ) 想 (xiǎng) 这 (zhè) 个 (gè) 办法 (bànfǎ) 怎么 (zěnme) 样 (yàng)?(What do you think about this method?) - Asking for an opinion.
想 (xiǎng) in Chinese reflects a cultural preference for indirectness and politeness in social interactions. Being overly direct with 要 (yào) can sometimes be perceived as abrupt or even demanding, especially when addressing strangers or superiors. 想 (xiǎng) allows for a softer approach, showing respect and allowing room for negotiation or refusal without causing discomfort.Common Mistakes
想 (xiǎng). Identifying and understanding the rationale behind these mistakes will significantly improve your accuracy and fluency.想 (xiǎng):想 (xiǎng) directly with a noun when intending to say 'I want [noun].' For instance, saying 我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 咖啡 (kāfēi) instead of 我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 喝 (hē) 咖啡 (kāfēi). This is incorrect because 想 (xiǎng) followed by a noun means 'to miss [noun]' or 'to think about [noun].'- Incorrect:
我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 饺子 (jiǎozi)。(This sounds like 'I miss dumplings' or 'I am thinking about dumplings.') - Correct:
我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 吃 (chī) 饺子 (jiǎozi)。(I would like to eat dumplings.)
想 (xiǎng) acts as a modal verb when expressing desire, and modal verbs always require a main verb to follow them. If you truly desire a noun politely, use 想要 (xiǎngyào).想 (xiǎng) with 要 (yào):要 (yào) when 想 (xiǎng) is appropriate can make you sound demanding or too direct.想 (xiǎng) | 要 (yào) |- Polite (desire):
我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 买 (mǎi) 这 (zhè) 件 (jiàn) 衣服 (yīfu)。(I would like to buy this piece of clothing.) - Direct/Demanding (strong intention):
我 (wǒ) 要 (yào) 买 (mǎi) 这 (zhè) 件 (jiàn) 衣服 (yīfu)。(I want to buy this piece of clothing / I'm going to buy this piece of clothing.)
想 (xiǎng) expresses a mental inclination, whereas 要 (yào) often conveys a decision, a requirement, or an immediate action. Choose 想 (xiǎng) for most social situations where politeness is valued.不 (bù) always precedes 想 (xiǎng). Placing it after 想 (xiǎng) is grammatically incorrect.- Incorrect:
我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 不 (bù) 去 (qù)。 - Correct:
我 (wǒ) 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) 去 (qù)。(I don't want to go.)
不 (bù) typically negates the verb or adjective immediately following it. Here, it negates the desire (想 (xiǎng)), not the action (去 (qù)). The only exception is in the A-not-A question format, 想 (xiǎng) 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng).想 (xiǎng) with 喜欢 (xǐhuān):喜欢 (xǐhuān) means 'to like' (a general preference or fondness), while 想 (xiǎng) means 'to want to' (a specific, often temporary, desire for an action).我 (wǒ) 喜欢 (xǐhuān) 听 (tīng) 音乐 (yīnyuè)。(I like listening to music. - General preference)我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 听 (tīng) 音乐 (yīnyuè)。(I want to listen to music [right now]. - Specific desire)
喜欢 (xǐhuān) describes a long-term or inherent preference. 想 (xiǎng) describes an immediate, internal impulse or wish to perform an action. You can like something (喜欢 (xǐhuān)) without necessarily wanting to do it at that exact moment (想 (xiǎng)).很 (hěn) (very) or 非常 (fēicháng) (extremely) always precede 想 (xiǎng) when intensifying the desire.- Incorrect:
我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 很 (hěn) 吃饭 (chī fàn)。 - Correct:
我 (wǒ) 很 (hěn) 想 (xiǎng) 吃饭 (chī fàn)。(I really want to eat.)
很 (hěn) modifies the 'wanting' itself, indicating a strong desire.Real Conversations
To truly master 想 (xiǎng), observing its natural usage in conversational contexts is essential. Native speakers seamlessly integrate 想 (xiǎng) to convey politeness, suggest ideas, and express personal feelings.
Scenario 1
- Waiter: 你 (nǐ) 想 (xiǎng) 吃 (chī) 什么 (shénme)? (What would you like to eat?)
- You: 我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 吃 (chī) 炒饭 (chǎofàn)。谢谢 (xièxie)。 (I would like to eat fried rice. Thank you.)
- Note: Here, 想 (xiǎng) makes your order a polite request, not a demand. If you said 我 (wǒ) 要 (yào) 吃 (chī) 炒饭 (chǎofàn), it would be more direct, possibly bordering on impolite in a formal setting, especially without 谢谢 (xièxie).
Scenario 2
- Friend A: 周末 (zhōumò) 你 (nǐ) 想 (xiǎng) 做 (zuò) 什么 (shénme)? (What do you want to do this weekend?)
- You: 我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 去 (qù) 公园 (gōngyuán) 走走 (zǒuzou)。你 (nǐ) 想 (xiǎng) 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) 一起 (yīqǐ) 去 (qù)? (I'd like to go for a walk in the park. Do you want to go together?)
- Friend A: 好 (hǎo) 啊 (a)! (Great!)
- Note: 想 (xiǎng) here expresses a personal preference or idea, making the suggestion casual and inviting. The A-not-A question 想 (xiǎng) 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) (xiǎng bù xiǎng) is very common for casual inquiries.
Scenario 3
- Teacher: 你 (nǐ) 以后 (yǐhòu) 想 (xiǎng) 做 (zuò) 什么 (shénme)? (What do you want to do in the future?)
- Student: 我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 当 (dāng) 一 (yī) 名 (míng) 医生 (yīshēng)。 (I want to be a doctor.)
- Note: 想 (xiǎng) is perfectly suited for expressing long-term goals or dreams, as these are internal desires and aspirations.
Scenario 4
- Friend B: 我们 (wǒmen) 去 (qù) 唱 (chàng) K (k) 吧 (ba)! (Let's go sing karaoke!)
- You: 我 (wǒ) 今天 (jīntiān) 有点 (yǒudiǎn) 累 (lèi)，不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) 去 (qù) 了 (le)。 (I'm a bit tired today, I don't want to go.)
- Note: 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) (bùxiǎng) is a polite way to decline an invitation or state a lack of desire, much softer than 不 (bù) 要 (yào) 去 (qù) (bùyào qù), which would sound like a firm refusal or even a command not to go.
Scenario 5
- Parent on Phone: 你 (nǐ) 想 (xiǎng) 妈妈 (māma) 吗 (ma)? (Do you miss Mom?)
- Child: 想 (xiǎng)! 我 (wǒ) 很 (hěn) 想 (xiǎng) 妈妈 (māma)! (Yes! I miss Mom very much!)
- Note: Here, 想 (xiǎng) is directly followed by a person, clearly indicating 'to miss.' The use of 很 (hěn) intensifies the feeling.
These examples illustrate that 想 (xiǎng) is integral to expressing personal wishes and navigating social interactions smoothly in Chinese. Its correct application enhances both clarity and politeness in your communication.
Quick FAQ
想 (xiǎng) can further solidify your understanding and prevent typical beginner pitfalls.想 (xiǎng) be used alone?你 (nǐ) 想 (xiǎng) 去 (qù) 吗 (ma)?(Do you want to go?)我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng)。(I want to [go].)我 (wǒ) 不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng)。(I don't want to [go].)
想 (xiǎng) and 想要 (xiǎngyào)?想 (xiǎng) primarily expresses 'to want to' followed by a verb (e.g., 想 (xiǎng) 吃 (chī) - want to eat). 想要 (xiǎngyào) is specifically used to express 'to want' followed by a noun (e.g., 想要 (xiǎngyào) 苹果 (píngguǒ) - want an apple). 想要 (xiǎngyào) carries a slightly stronger, yet still polite, desire for an object compared to simply 要 (yào) [noun].想 (xiǎng) | + Verb | Wǒ xiǎng xuéxí. | 我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 学习 (xuéxí)。 (I want to study.) |想要 (xiǎngyào) | + Noun | Wǒ xiǎngyào zhè běn shū. | 我 (wǒ) 想要 (xiǎngyào) 这 (zhè) 本 (běn) 书 (shū)。 (I want this book.) |不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) (bùxiǎng) rude?不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) is generally not considered rude. It is a polite way to express that you do not have the desire or inclination to do something. It implies a personal feeling, which is much softer than 不 (bù) 要 (yào) (bùyào), which can sound like a blunt refusal or even a command not to do something.不 (bù) 想 (xiǎng) maintains politeness, allowing for a gentle decline or statement of preference.想 (xiǎng)?想 (xiǎng) to intensify the meaning. Common intensifiers include 很 (hěn) (very), 非常 (fēicháng) (extremely), or 特别 (tèbié) (especially).我 (wǒ) 很 (hěn) 想 (xiǎng) 去 (qù) 中国 (Zhōngguó)。(I really want to go to China.)我 (wǒ) 非常 (fēicháng) 想 (xiǎng) 见 (jiàn) 你 (nǐ)。(I extremely want to see you.)
想 (xiǎng) indicate past desire?想 (xiǎng) itself indicates a present mental state (wanting, thinking, missing). If you are referring to a desire that existed in the past, you would add a past time indicator.昨天 (zuótiān) 我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 吃 (chī) 披萨 (pīsà)，但是 (dànshì) 没 (méi) 吃 (chī)。(Yesterday I wanted to eat pizza, but I didn't eat it.)
昨天 (zuótiān) (yesterday) marks the time, and 想 (xiǎng) refers to the mental state at that past time. Without 昨天 (zuótiān), 我 (wǒ) 想 (xiǎng) 吃 (chī) 披萨 (pīsà) would mean 'I want to eat pizza [now].'想 (xiǎng) accurately and appropriately, enhancing your ability to communicate effectively and politely in Chinese.Formation of {想|xiǎng} Sentences
| Type | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Affirmative
|
Subj + 想 + Verb
|
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {吃|chī} {饭|fàn}
|
|
Negative
|
Subj + 不想 + Verb
|
{我|wǒ} {不|bù} {想|xiǎng} {吃|chī} {饭|fàn}
|
|
Question
|
Subj + 想 + Verb + 吗?
|
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {吃|chī} {饭|fàn} {吗|ma}?
|
|
Short Answer
|
想 / 不想
|
{想|xiǎng} / {不|bù} {想|xiǎng}
|
|
Interrogative
|
Subj + 想不想 + Verb?
|
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {不|bù} {想|xiǎng} {吃|chī} {饭|fàn}?
|
|
Past Intent
|
Subj + 想 + Verb + 了
|
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {了|le}
|
Meanings
The modal verb {想|xiǎng} indicates a desire, intention, or plan to perform an action.
Desire/Intention
To want to do something.
“{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {睡|shuì}{觉|jiào}.”
“{他|tā} {想|xiǎng} {看|kàn} {电|diàn}{影|yǐng}.”
Reference Table
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Affirmative
|
Subj + 想 + Verb
|
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {学|xué} {中|zhōng}{文|wén}
|
|
Negative
|
Subj + 不想 + Verb
|
{我|wǒ} {不|bù} {想|xiǎng} {学|xué} {中|zhōng}{文|wén}
|
|
Question
|
Subj + 想 + Verb + 吗?
|
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {学|xué} {中|zhōng}{文|wén} {吗|ma}?
|
|
A-not-A
|
Subj + 想不想 + Verb?
|
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {不|bù} {想|xiǎng} {学|xué} {中|zhōng}{文|wén}?
|
|
Past
|
Subj + 想 + Verb
|
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {但|dàn} {没|méi} {去|qù}
|
|
Future
|
Subj + 想 + Verb
|
{下|xià} {周|zhōu} {我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {旅|lǚ}{游|yóu}
|
|
Polite
|
Subj + 想 + Verb
|
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {请|qǐng} {你|nǐ} {喝|hē} {茶|chá}
|
Formality Spectrum
{我|wǒ} {希|xī}{望|wàng} {前|qián}{往|wǎng}. (Expressing intent to leave.)
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù}. (Expressing intent to leave.)
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {啊|a}. (Expressing intent to leave.)
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {溜|liū} {了|le}. (Expressing intent to leave.)
The {想|xiǎng} Universe
Desire
- {想|xiǎng} {吃|chī} want to eat
Thinking
- {想|xiǎng} {一|yī} {想|xiǎng} think about it
Missing
- {想|xiǎng} {你|nǐ} miss you
Examples by Level
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {喝|hē} {茶|chá}.
I want to drink tea.
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {吗|ma}?
Do you want to go?
{他|tā} {不|bù} {想|xiǎng} {学|xué}.
He doesn't want to study.
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {睡|shuì}{觉|jiào}.
I want to sleep.
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {北|běi}{京|jīng} {旅|lǚ}{游|yóu}.
I want to go to Beijing for travel.
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {吃|chī} {什|shén}{么|me}?
What do you want to eat?
{我|wǒ} {不|bù} {想|xiǎng} {看|kàn} {这|zhè} {部|bù} {电|diàn}{影|yǐng}.
I don't want to watch this movie.
{他|tā} {想|xiǎng} {买|mǎi} {一|yī} {台|tái} {电|diàn}{脑|nǎo}.
He wants to buy a computer.
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {跟|gēn} {你|nǐ} {谈|tán}{谈|tán}.
I would like to talk with you.
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {什|shén}{么|me} {时|shí}{候|hou} {走|zǒu}?
When do you want to leave?
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {把|bǎ} {这|zhè} {件|jiàn} {事|shì} {做|zuò} {好|hǎo}.
I want to do this well.
{他|tā} {想|xiǎng} {出|chū}{国|guó} {深|shēn}{造|zào}.
He wants to study abroad.
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {这|zhè} {个|gè} {方|fāng}{案|àn} {应|yīng}{该|gāi} {可|kě}{行|xíng}.
I think this plan should be feasible.
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {得|de} {太|tài} {简|jiǎn}{单|dān} {了|le}.
You are thinking too simply.
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {请|qǐng} {你|nǐ} {帮|bāng} {个|gè} {忙|máng}.
I would like to ask for your help.
{他|tā} {想|xiǎng} {要|yào} {的|de} {是|shì} {尊|zūn}{重|zhòng}.
What he wants is respect.
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {这|zhè} {种|zhǒng} {情|qíng}{况|kuàng} {不|bù} {会|huì} {持|chí}{续|xù} {太|tài} {久|jiǔ}.
I think this situation won't last long.
{想|xiǎng} {到|dào} {这|zhè}{里|lǐ}, {我|wǒ} {心|xīn}{里|lǐ} {很|hěn} {难|nán}{受|shòu}.
Thinking of this, I feel sad.
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {不|bù} {到|dào} {他|tā} {竟|jìng}{然|rán} {这|zhè}{么|me} {聪|cōng}{明|míng}.
You wouldn't imagine he is so smart.
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {这|zhè} {是|shì} {唯|wéi}{一|yī} {的|de} {办|bàn}{法|fǎ}.
I think this is the only way.
{想|xiǎng} {当|dāng}{年|nián}, {他|tā} {也|yě} {是|shì} {个|gè} {热|rè}{血|xuè} {青|qīng}{年|nián}.
Thinking back to those years, he was also a passionate youth.
{这|zhè} {种|zhǒng} {想|xiǎng}{法|fǎ} {未|wèi}{免|miǎn} {太|tài} {过|guò} {激|jī}{进|jìn}.
This way of thinking is perhaps too radical.
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {来|lái} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù}, {还|hái} {是|shì} {放|fàng}{弃|qì} {吧|ba}.
I thought about it over and over, and decided to give up.
{他|tā} {的|de} {想|xiǎng}{法|fǎ} {总|zǒng} {是|shì} {与|yǔ} {众|zhòng} {不|bù} {同|tóng}.
His way of thinking is always unique.
Easily Confused
Both mean 'want', but {要|yào} is stronger and can mean 'will'.
Learners think {想|xiǎng} {要|yào} is just a longer version of {想|xiǎng}.
Both express intent.
Common Mistakes
{我|wǒ} {吃|chī} {想|xiǎng}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {吃|chī}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {咖|kā}{啡|fēi}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {喝|hē} {咖|kā}{啡|fēi}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {吗|ma}
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {吗|ma}
{我|wǒ} {不|bù} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {吗|ma}
{你|nǐ} {不|bù} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {吗|ma}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {了|le} {去|qù}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {要|yào} {去|qù}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {了|le}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {他|tā} {去|qù}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {让|ràng} {他|tā} {去|qù}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {很|hěn} {去|qù}
{我|wǒ} {很|hěn} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {很|hěn}
{我|wǒ} {很|hěn} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù}
{想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {吗|ma}?
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {吗|ma}?
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {不|bù} {去|qù}
{我|wǒ} {不|bù} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {不|bù}
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {不|bù} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù}
Sentence Patterns
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} ___.
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} ___ {吗|ma}?
{我|wǒ} {不|bù} {想|xiǎng} ___.
{他|tā} {想|xiǎng} {跟|gēn} {你|nǐ} ___.
Real World Usage
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {点|diǎn} {这|zhè} {个|gè}.
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {哪|nǎ}{里|lǐ}?
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {在|zài} {贵|guì} {公|gōng}{司|sī} {学|xué}{习|xí}.
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {买|mǎi} {一|yī} {张|zhāng} {票|piào}.
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {旅|lǚ}{游|yóu}!
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {加|jiā} {辣|là}.
Keep it simple
Don't conjugate
Use A-not-A
Be polite
Smart Tips
Use {想|xiǎng} instead of {要|yào} to sound more polite.
Use the A-not-A structure for a more natural question.
Always check if you have a verb after {想|xiǎng}.
Use {希|xī}{望|wàng} instead of {想|xiǎng} in professional emails.
Pronunciation
Tone 3
{想|xiǎng} is a third tone. It should dip low and rise slightly.
Question
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {吗|ma}↑
Rising intonation at the end for yes/no questions.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of {想|xiǎng} as a 'thought bubble' above your head—it's what you are thinking of doing.
Visual Association
Imagine a person with a thought bubble containing a delicious meal. The word {想|xiǎng} is the hook connecting the person to the meal.
Rhyme
To say what you want, just use {想|xiǎng}, put it before the verb, and you're strong!
Story
Xiao Ming is hungry. He sees a bowl of noodles. He thinks, 'I want to eat.' In Chinese, he says, '{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {吃|chī} {面|miàn}.' He is happy because he expressed his desire clearly.
Word Web
Challenge
Write down 5 things you want to do today using '{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng}...' and say them out loud.
Cultural Notes
Using {想|xiǎng} is very common in daily life. It is polite and direct.
Similar to Mainland, but often used with more particles like {啊|a} or {喔|o}.
Often influenced by Cantonese, might use {想|xiǎng} in slightly different sentence structures.
The character {想|xiǎng} is composed of {相|xiāng} (mutual/appearance) and {心|xīn} (heart). It literally means 'heart thinking of something'.
Conversation Starters
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {吃|chī} {什|shén}{么|me}?
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {去|qù} {哪|nǎ}{里|lǐ} {旅|lǚ}{游|yóu}?
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {学|xué} {什|shén}{么|me} {新|xīn} {技|jì}{能|néng}?
{你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {如|rú}{何|hé} {改|gǎi}{善|shàn} {你|nǐ} {的|de} {生|shēng}{活|huó}?
Journal Prompts
Common Mistakes
Test Yourself
{我|wǒ} ___ {去|qù} {学|xué}{校|xiào}.
Which is correct?
Find and fix the mistake:
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {咖|kā}{啡|fēi}.
Arrange the words in the correct order:
All words placed
Click words above to build the sentence
I don't want to go.
Answer starts with: {我|...
Use: {想|xiǎng}, {他|tā}, {看|kàn}, {电|diàn}{影|yǐng}.
Modal verbs in Chinese conjugate.
A: {你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {吃|chī} {什|shén}{么|me}? B: ___.
Score: /8
Practice Exercises
8 exercises{我|wǒ} ___ {去|qù} {学|xué}{校|xiào}.
Which is correct?
Find and fix the mistake:
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {咖|kā}{啡|fēi}.
{去|qù} / {想|xiǎng} / {我|wǒ} / {吗|ma} / {你|nǐ}?
I don't want to go.
Use: {想|xiǎng}, {他|tā}, {看|kàn}, {电|diàn}{影|yǐng}.
Modal verbs in Chinese conjugate.
A: {你|nǐ} {想|xiǎng} {吃|chī} {什|shén}{么|me}? B: ___.
Score: /8
Practice Bank
10 exercises{他|tā} ___ {想|xiǎng} {学习|xuéxí}。
想 / 吗 / 你 / 来
I would like to see a movie.
Which sentence means 'I miss you'?
Match the pairs:
{我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {很|hěn} {睡觉|shuìjiào}。
{你|nǐ} ___ {吃|chī}？
Choosing a caption for a beach photo:
不想 / 喝 / 她 / 咖啡
Match the feeling to the phrase:
Score: /10
FAQ (8)
Yes, it expresses intent for the future.
It is neutral and polite.
The sentence will be incomplete.
No, it stays {想|xiǎng}.
No, that is redundant.
Add {不|bù} before {想|xiǎng}.
Yes, but {打算|dǎsuàn} is more formal.
Yes, {我|wǒ} {想|xiǎng} {你|nǐ} means 'I miss you'.
Scaffolded Practice
1
2
3
4
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
In Other Languages
Querer + infinitive
Spanish verbs conjugate for person; Chinese verbs do not.
Vouloir + infinitive
French has complex verb conjugations.
Möchten + infinitive
German word order changes in complex sentences.
~tai (verb suffix)
Chinese uses a separate word; Japanese uses a suffix.
yureed an + verb
Arabic requires a connector particle 'an'.
想 (xiǎng)
N/A
Learning Path
Prerequisites
Related Grammar Rules
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